As temperatures start to rise in the Okanagan, the Regional District Central Okanagan (RDCO) is urging pet owners to leave their furry companions at home.
Even a few minutes in a parked car can be deadly for pets, the RDCO states in a media release. Temperatures inside vehicles can soar quickly, even with the windows cracked or the car parked in the shade.
鈥淚t only takes 10 minutes for a dog to suffer from heatstroke in a hot car,鈥� the RDCO warns. 鈥淓ven if you think it鈥檚 a quick stop, it鈥檚 not worth the risk.鈥�
Under the Responsible Dog Ownership bylaw, anyone caught leaving a dog in a vehicle without proper ventilation or shade could face a $500 fine.
Air conditioning might seem like a lifesaver, the RDCO says. Leaving a car running is not only bad for the environment, but it鈥檚 also risky. If the AC fails, your pet could be in serious danger.
If you spot an animal in distress inside a vehicle, don鈥檛 break the window. Only RCMP officers or SPCA Special Constables are legally allowed to intervene. Instead, call the BC SPCA Animal Helpline at 1-855-622-7722. If it鈥檚 an emergency, dial 9-1-1.
For more tips on keeping pets safe this summer, visit the or websites.
